Severe weather impacts and road closures
Hutt City Council is investing in Petone’s future through critical projects that balance current and future community need and affordability with heritage preservation.
The Pito-One Projects consist of three major initiatives in the Petone area: the refurbishment of Petone Wharf, the redevelopment of the Petone Recreation Ground Grandstand, and the repair of the Petone Neighbourhood Hub (Library building).
Hutt City Council is progressing with plans to partially restore and reopen a section of the iconic 116-year-old Petone Wharf, which has been closed since 2021 due to storm and earthquake damage. The wharf holds deep historical and cultural value for the community and has been the focus of strong public advocacy for its preservation.
In 2024, Council commissioned an independent structural assessment to explore options including full restoration, partial remediation, or demolition. After reviewing costings and gathering feedback from the Petone Community Board, Pito-One Projects Steering Group, and local campaigners, Council endorsed partial remediation as the most feasible solution. This approach retains a large portion of the wharf, removes the most deteriorated section, and strengthens the remainder — all within the $12 million Long Term Plan budget.
With a clear direction now set, pre-consent discussions with regulatory authorities are underway. Subject to approvals, construction is expected to begin in 2026.
Heritage Services to Temporarily Relocate as Petone Hub Undergoes Essential Repairs
Hutt City Council’s Heritage Services are on the move — temporarily — to ensure the long-term safety and vitality of the Hutt City heritage collection.
To ensure uninterrupted public access and the protection of our city’s heritage collections, Heritage Services — including the Heritage Archive, Research Room, and staff workroom — will operate out of a dedicated space at the Walter Nash Centre in Taitā for approximately 8–12 months.
The relocation of services to Taitā will allow for urgent maintenance and health and safety issues at the Petone Neighbourhood Hub to be addressed.
“We’re committed to protecting our city’s heritage and ensuring the community continues to have access to these valuable services,” says Joann Ransom, Hutt City Council’s Head of Neighbourhood Hubs and Libraries.
“This relocation allows us to do both — and we’re grateful for the public’s support as we invest in the future of the Petone Neighbourhood Hub. While further up the Hutt Valley, Walter Nash Centre is close to the Taita railway station and has free parking, which makes it very accessible to the public.
Council has allocated $5 million to critical repair works at the Petone Neighbourhood Hub and Library, forming part of a broader programme of investment in the area. The funding will support essential health and safety upgrades, ensuring the Hub remains a vibrant, inclusive and resilient space at the heart of the Petone community.
“The Petone Community has made it clear how important this space is,” says Andrea Blackshaw, Hutt City Council’s Director of Neighbourhoods and Communities.
“This investment ensures the Hub can continue to serve its community for years to come."
The historic Petone Recreation Ground Grandstand, built in 1939, is being considered for partial redevelopment within a $3 million budget approved by Council. Due to seismic and safety concerns, public access to the seating area has been restricted. Council is currently investigating options that range from full seismic strengthening and restoration of seating to more modest upgrades focused on safety and functionality. All options include restoring the changing rooms and improving accessibility. Engagement with local sports groups and the community is ongoing, with final decisions expected following further assessments and consultation.